15

Southwestern Caucasus

Rug, dated (between 1824 and 1834)

It is difficult to pinpoint the place of origin of this prayer rug. At first glance its design elements, squarish configuration, and soft, glossy wool invite a Kazak designation, but it may have originated in northwestern Iran, perhaps a product of Kurdish or Shahsavan weavers. The geometric central medallion and the two hooked diamonds are reminiscent of motifs seen in older tribal rugs from eastern Anatolia and the Caucasus, but the three mirrored floral elements in the lower field are a curious departure. Beyond its clear drawing and tasteful use of space, what sets this rug apart is its unusual palette. Many pile weavings of the region gain their visual strength from an intermingling of vivid red, blue, green and yellow hues, but this rug departs from the expected with its soft colors, intriguingly balanced in the carefully juxtaposed field elements and borders. Although the last numeral is unclear, the rest of the Islamic date at the top of the rug indicates that it was made during the decade 1824-1834.

M.H.

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